Thursday Night at The Backyard Comedy Club

If you’re looking for an evening filled with genuine laughs and a chance to catch some of the UK’s funniest on the rise, Thursday night at The Backyard Comedy Club might just be worth your while. This event offers a mix of established comedy stars trying out new material alongside rising talents, all in a relaxed, friendly environment. It’s an experience that feels more like hanging out with friends than sitting in a formal theater.

What truly makes this night stand out are two key elements: first, the opportunity to hear brand new jokes from comedians you admire, and second, the chance to enjoy comedy in a setting where you’re close enough to see the expressions and reactions of the performers. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s not a show for those expecting a polished, fully finished routine—these are new bits, so some jokes might land better than others.

This experience is best suited for those who love comedy and want an authentic, up-close look at the creative process. Whether you’re a dedicated comedy fan or someone just wanting to try something different on a Thursday evening, you’ll find this event engaging and fun.

Key Points

• Fresh Material: Be among the first to hear new jokes from comedians, including some big TV names warming up for tours.
• Intimate Venue: Enjoy comedy in a relaxed setting, making it easier to connect with the performers and the audience.
• Diverse Lineup: The mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talent keeps the comedy fresh and lively.
• Affordable Price: At just over $11, it’s a budget-friendly way to enjoy a night of laughs.
• Community Atmosphere: Join fellow comedy enthusiasts for shared fun and conversation.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve your spot without paying upfront.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Setting

Located in Greater London, The Backyard Comedy Club provides a cozy, inviting environment perfect for comedy nights. The venue feels personable rather than grandiose, which helps foster that “comedian on your couch” vibe. The venue is wheelchair accessible, making it open to a broad audience. As you settle in, you’ll notice the bar and kitchen open from 6:00 pm, giving you some time to grab a drink or a snack before the show kicks off at 8:00 pm.

The Schedule and Flow

The evening begins with the bar and kitchen opening early, so many guests arrive around 6:30 pm to settle in. Ticket collection begins at 6:30 pm, and it’s wise to arrive before 7:15 pm to exchange your ticket for a wristband; otherwise, a £3 late fee applies. This system helps keep the event running smoothly and avoids last-minute rushes.

The show itself lasts about 2.5 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and wrapping up around 10:30 pm. After the show, the bar remains open till late, encouraging socializing and a relaxed vibe. This extended social aspect is a nice touch—after all, what’s better than sharing a few laughs and swapping opinions about the comedians?

The Lineup and Performers

The lineup is carefully curated to balance experience and novelty. Expect to see comedians trying out new material, which means some jokes might be hits or misses, but that’s part of the fun. Recent performances have included well-known TV faces like Stephen Merchant, co-creator of “The Office,” and Harry Hill, known for his quirky style. Their presence suggests that the club attracts high-caliber talent, even if they’re not performing their most polished routines.

The hosts, David Whitney and Dave Ward, bring their own comedic flavor—Whitney with “Huge Laughs” and Ward with sharp wit and engaging stage presence—helping maintain a lively, friendly atmosphere. Their job is to keep the night flowing smoothly and the audience engaged.

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The Comedy Style and Atmosphere

What makes this night unique is its up-close and personal style. You won’t be sitting far away from the performers; instead, you’ll be close enough to catch every facial expression and nuance of delivery. This fosters a sense of shared experience that larger theatres often lack.

The vibe is casual and welcoming, making it suitable for both serious comedy fans and those just looking for a fun night out. The audience tends to be friendly, and the environment encourages mingling, especially after the show when the bar stays open.

The Value for Money

At just $11.11 per ticket, this experience is quite affordable considering the quality of entertainment. You’re paying mainly for the chance to see fresh material from talented comedians, rather than a polished, mainstream production. Since food and drinks are not included, you might want to budget for additional bar purchases, but the menu is available at the club’s website, offering a variety of options.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early to avoid late entry fees.
• Consider grabbing a drink or snack before the show starts.
• Be prepared for some jokes that might not land—this is part of the charm of hearing new material.
• If you have mobility concerns, the venue is accessible.
• Book your tickets in advance since spots can fill up, especially for popular nights.

What We Love

The chance to listen to comedians testing new jokes is genuinely exciting. It adds a sense of spontaneity and discovery that you don’t often get with bigger, more polished comedy shows. The intimate setting makes the experience more engaging, as you’re close enough to see every flick of an eyebrow or twitch of a grin.

The Possible Drawbacks

While the relaxed vibe is a plus, it’s worth noting that not every joke will be a hit—some material might feel rough around the edges. Also, the event is strictly for adults, so if you’re bringing children, it’s probably not suitable. The ticket exchange process and late arrival fee are minor inconveniences but good to keep in mind for a smooth night.

Who’s It Best For?

This experience suits anyone who appreciates comedy and wants to see up-and-coming acts and established comedians trying out new routines. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, social atmosphere over a formal show. If you like discovering fresh talent and enjoy the buzz of a lively crowd, this night could be a hit.

FAQs

Is the event suitable for children?
No, this comedy night is intended for adults. It’s recommended for those 18 and older due to the nature of the content and venue policies.

How long does the show last?
The show runs approximately 2.5 hours, starting at 8:00 pm and ending around 10:30 pm, with bar open afterward till late.

Can I cancel my ticket?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Do I need to arrive early?
Yes, arriving before 7:15 pm is advised to exchange your ticket for a wristband and avoid a late arrival fee of £3.

Are food and drinks included?
No, tickets cover only the performance. Food and drinks are available for purchase from the bar and kitchen.

Is the venue accessible?
Yes, the Backyard Comedy Club is wheelchair accessible, making it welcoming for all guests.

Can I book tickets in advance?
Absolutely. Booking ahead guarantees your spot and helps avoid last-minute disappointment.

What happens if I arrive late?
You will need to pay a £3 late fee and will be required to exchange your ticket for a wristband upon arrival.

Is the comedy performed outdoors?
No, it takes place indoors at the cozy club environment.

To sum it up, Thursday Night at The Backyard Comedy Club offers an authentic, engaging comedy experience in a friendly atmosphere. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re eager to hear new jokes from well-known and emerging comedians alike, and if you enjoy a setting that’s close to the performers. The affordable price and flexible booking options make it accessible, while the intimate environment ensures you’ll feel part of the fun. Whether you’re a seasoned comedy lover or simply looking for something different to do on a Thursday, this event is likely to give you plenty of laughs and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: